29 August 2008 14:54
A few months ago my Arab x was diagnosed with anaemia. The vet prescribed a month’s supply of B12 powder, which seemed to work. However, the symptoms are returning. He stands as if he wants to urinate and swishes his tail. He also appears to be tender around his tummy.
Six year ago he suffered some liver damage due to ragwort poisoning but he has been fine until recently. Does the return of his symptoms mean something serious?
Answer
By Your Horse
Vet Mark Lingard replies:
The signs of discomfort your horse is showing cannot directly be attributed to the anaemia.
I would be more concerned that the signs are due to an abdominal problem, such as a sore liver or possibly a bladder complaint. The anaemia could well be secondary to a more serious primary problem. I would ask your vet to give your horse another thorough check over, including a rectal examination and blood tests, to find the root cause of your horse’s discomfort.